In support of Russell Contreras and all NAHJ members

Hey NAHJers --

It's 11:16 pm on Wednesday. I just got home from work, where I spent a very long day writing about the most contentious subject on my energy beat: Cape Wind, a proposed offshore wind project that plenty of people have an opinion about. Not only did I go around and around with sources -- who disagree vehemently -- I then worked with several editors to make sure that each viewpoint was represented fairly, accurately, and in the full context of the overall situation.

That's the kind of balance we strive for as professional journalists -- and something we need to strive for as members of NAHJ.

I say this after receiving and email this afternoon from one NAHJ member, who has taken exception to comments made by Russell Contreras, who I am publicly supporting in his bid for financial officer. This member disputed Russell's perception that tension still exists between members of CCNMA and NAHJ, and essentially accused Russell of bringing up bad blood to further his campaign, as well as the campaign of Hugo Balta, who is running for NAHJ president.

I'm not here to tell you who is right. I am here to remind you that there are always several sides to a story. You know this.

Some members agree with Russell and believe there are still old tensions lingering that NAHJ would do well to address. Others believe we have long moved past the issue. Wherever you stand, try to be respectful of one another as we get our viewpoints across.

I can tell you this: Russell is not only a dedicated journalist with a strong commitment to NAHJ, he's a trusted friend. And I think I can safely say that I, Russell, and anyone else running for office welcome comments from other members about our campaigns, the issues we need to focus on, and where our organization should be headed.

Respectfully
-- Erin